The novel depicts families like the Millses, the Spencers, the Odoms, and the Malones as close, protective groups. Of Stella’s neighbors, what traits and qualities do these and other Bumblebee families share? In what ways does the larger community of neighbors and individual families function as a single family would? Cite two to three examples from the book to support your thoughts. 

Stella’s actions and words show that she has matured over the course of the story. What are five events that contribute strongly to her coming-of-age? Cite scenes at the novel’s beginning, middle, and end that serve as evidence of Stella’s maturation.

Riverside School is different from most modern-day schools in many ways. Considering factors such as class grouping, content, and day-to-day experiences, what text-based evidence shows these differences most clearly? In what ways does Riverside School share characteristics with modern-day schools?